To witness Harlem, New York native Vivian Sessoms perform live is to experience a masterclass in vocal power and emotional depth. I recently had the pleasure of observing her captivating set during her tour with UK soul legend Omar, and it served as a powerful reminder of her immense talent. Having had the privilege of styling Vivian for editorials and some of her music videos, I’ve seen her artistry up close, but seeing her command a stage, weaving through songs from her past two albums, was a truly wonderful and moving experience.
Vivian Sessoms voice is an indelible part of the modern musical landscape. If you’re a music fan, you have almost certainly heard her. Her astounding resume as a backing and featured vocalist reads like a who’s who of music royalty, including icons like Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Donna Summer, Sinéad O’Connor, P!nk, Joe Cocker, and Cher. Her ability to blend seamlessly with such a diverse range of artists, from the pop stylings of Diddy and Taylor Dayne to the groundbreaking compositions of Ryuichi Sakamoto, is a testament to her incredible versatility and mastery.
It is this vast experience that she pours into her own soul-stirring solo work. Her recent performance showcased powerful songs from her compelling albums, Life I and Life II. These records are a testament to her journey as an artist, presenting a rich tapestry of jazz, soul, and R&B that is entirely her own. She is not just a singer; she is a storyteller, and her music is both deeply personal and universally resonant.
One of the most poignant examples of her artistry is the single “I Can’t Breathe (For Erica)” from the Life II album. The track, which features the exceptional talent of jazz guitarist Mark Whitfield, premiered on Billboard in conjunction with Black History Month. Written by Sessoms with Shedrick Mitchell, the song is a powerful and necessary piece of social commentary, showcasing her willingness to tackle difficult subjects with grace and raw honesty.
On stage, these songs take on new life. Vivian doesn’t just sing notes; she connects, she interprets, she inhabits every lyric. The performance was a journey—effortless in its delivery yet packed with emotional weight. From soulful ballads to energetic anthems, she holds the audience in the palm of her hand.
Vivian Sessoms embodies the spirit of a true artist—the trusted collaborator to legends and a formidable solo artist in her own right. Her voice has supported the biggest stars in the world, and now, with her brilliant new music, it’s her time to take center stage. If you aren’t yet familiar with her solo work, do yourself a favor and dive into her albums. And if you ever have the chance to see her perform live, don’t hesitate. It’s a musical experience you won’t soon forget.
